Judge says he will order Greenpeace to pay an expected $345 million in oil pipeline protest case - AP News
AP News
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A judge has ruled that Greenpeace will likely have to pay $345 million in damages after being found liable for protest activities that disrupted an oil pipeline project. The case, which involved direct actions taken by Greenpeace activists to block construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline, has drawn significant attention due to its implications for environmental advocacy and corporate liability.
The judge’s decision stems from a lawsuit filed by Energy Transfer Partners, the company behind the pipeline, and other stakeholders who argued that Greenpeace’s actions caused substantial delays and financial harm. The plaintiffs alleged that Greenpeace orchestrated a coordinated effort to obstruct construction, leading to millions of dollars in losses. While Greenpeace has vowed to appeal the ruling, the judge emphasized that the evidence presented during the trial strongly supported the claim for damages.
This case highlights the ongoing tension between corporate interests and environmental activism, particularly in the context of oil and gas infrastructure projects. Environmental groups like Greenpeace often face criticism for their direct action tactics, which are sometimes seen as disruptive to business operations. The ruling could set a legal precedent for how courts handle cases where activists interfere with commercial activities, potentially deterring similar forms of protest in the future.
The outcome also raises questions about the balance between protecting the environment and allowing corporate projects to proceed unimpeded. As climate change continues to dominate global conversations, this case underscores the high stakes involved in activism aimed at curbing fossil fuel development. For Greenpeace, the financial penalty could strain its resources and set a challenging precedent for future campaigns.
Ultimately, this ruling not only impacts Greenpeace but also sends broader signals
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Originally published on AP News on 2/25/2026